You know energy is important: You pay for it on utility bills, or when buying food and fuel; how we use it defines civilization and changes the planet. But what is it? If it can’t be created or destroyed, what does it mean to “consume” it? What is a watt? A joule?!?

I’ve been teaching energy concepts to ITP students since 2004, and in this (and other) camp sessions I’ll distill that curriculum to key points that will help you understand energy better, and evaluate your work - whether it be tech, art, or anything else - from an energy perspective in a quantitative way.

In this session I’ll introduce some key energy-related concepts, units, and terms, as well as big ideas in the space. Later sessions will focus on hands-on applications of these ideas.

This session is part of an Energy DIY series, including Solar and Kinetic workshops (attend any or all you like).